The First 24 Hours: What to Expect When Establishing Breastfeeding

The first 24 hours of lactation can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re a first-time parent or experienced, understanding what’s normal, common concerns, and how to troubleshoot early breastfeeding challenges can make a big difference. Here’s what you need to know to feel confident and supported in the early hours of your breastfeeding journey.

The First Hour: The Golden Hour

The first hour after birth, often called the "golden hour," is crucial for lactation. During this time, immediate and uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact with your baby can help trigger their natural instinct to latch. Some babies will find the breast and latch on their own, while others may need a little guidance. Either way, this early bonding time is beneficial for both you and your newborn.

If your baby doesn’t latch right away, don’t panic. Continue skin-to-skin, allow them to explore, and offer the breast gently. Hand-expressing a few drops of colostrum and placing it on your nipple may encourage them to latch.

Common Breastfeeding Concerns

1. Will My Baby Latch Right Away?

   • Some babies latch immediately, while others take time. Skin-to-skin contact and patience are key. Trying different breastfeeding positions can help.

2. Do I Have Enough Breast Milk?

   • Your body produces colostrum, a thick, nutrient-rich first milk. While the quantity may seem small, it’s exactly what your newborn needs. Their stomach is only about the size of a cherry at birth, so a few drops of colostrum are enough in the early hours.

3. Is Breastfeeding Supposed to Hurt?

   • Mild discomfort is normal as you and your baby adjust, but sharp or persistent pain could indicate a poor latch. If you experience pain, gently break the latch with a clean finger and try again. Seeking help early from a lactation consultant can prevent further issues.

Common Breastfeeding Issues & Ways to Fix Them

1. Latch Difficulties

   • If your baby is struggling to latch, ensure they are opening their mouth wide enough and covering a good portion of the areola. Try different positions like the football hold or cross-cradle hold. Hand-expressing colostrum and rubbing it on your nipple may entice them to latch.

2. Engorgement

   • While engorgement usually happens a few days later, some people experience fullness early on. Frequent nursing, gentle breast massage, and warm compresses before feeds can help relieve discomfort.

3. Sleepy Baby After Birth

   • Some newborns are very sleepy, making it hard to establish frequent feedings. If your baby is too sleepy to nurse, try gently stroking their feet, undressing them slightly, or changing their diaper before feeding. Offering the breast every 2-3 hours is important for stimulating milk production.

Feeding Frequency & Expectations

In the first 24 hours, newborns typically feed 8-12 times. However, some may cluster feed, meaning they nurse in short bursts over a couple of hours and then sleep for a longer stretch. Others may feed only a few times in the first day. As long as your baby is having at least one wet diaper and appears content, this is normal.

Breastfeeding is a journey, and every experience is unique. If you choose to breastfeed, remember that support is available. If it doesn’t work out, you’re still an amazing parent making the best choices for your baby. Fed is always best, and your well-being matters too.

The early hours set the foundation, and seeking guidance when needed can make all the difference. Trust yourself, trust your baby, and take it one feed at a time. You’ve got this!